Baby pockets a portable, diapering and grooming baby product storage/organizer which quilt like nature stimulates babies/children

ABSTRACT

Baby Pockets&#39; multiple functions as a storage area for baby care products and toys, organizer, travel system, entertainment system, and decorative wall hanger make this invention unique. No other product serves all of these purposes combined. Its multiple functions makes diapering and grooming of babies and children easier than it has ever been.  
     As mentioned, Baby Pockets is made of fabric. It is rectangular in shape and contains pockets of various sizes on its front. There are also elastic loops. Baby Pockets hangs on a wall at an infant or child&#39;s eye level and within the caregiver&#39;s reach near the changing station. The pockets and elastic loops are specifically designed to fit everyday diapering and grooming baby care products.  
     The baby care product organizers that are currently on the market are usually in the form of furniture or handbags. A caregiver must rifle through a draw or inside of a handbag to locate needed products. Baby Pockets eliminates this time wasting effort by providing a neat and orderly place for almost any baby care product. The baby care products are visible therefore easily located and obtained.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[0001] E. Hillary Long is seeking a patent for her invention entitledBaby Pockets. Baby Pockets is a diaper changing tool, travel system andchild entertainment device all in one product. It is quilt like indesign, made primarily out of fabric, thread and elastic. It containspockets and elastic loops for baby care products and toys. It's use ofcolors and designs along with its elastic loops and ability to carrytoys stimulates a child allowing a caregiver to change a diaper, wipe adirty face or otherwise care for a child with ease and without strugglefrom a tired or uncooperative child.

[0002] The inventor created the first “Baby Pockets” to organize herdiaper changing area, to speed diaper changes and simplify the processby saving time and aggravation. The first Baby Pockets was created toreplace the changing table her son used. It was created with brightcolors and many pockets for all the diaper changing necessities atoddler requires. The pockets contained toys as well as diaper changingitems. The material used was educational for the child with pictures andwords quilted to the material. The Baby Pockets, approximately 38″×38″with elastic loops and over 10 pockets of varying sizes, wasdecoratively hung using loops and a quilting rod.

[0003] The second Baby Pockets was created to entertain her babydaughter during changing by attracting her eye to the bright colors andtoys hung from the elastic loops (for the infant the colors used werered, black and white) while the pockets contained all the items used inchanging her diaper. The inventor created different pocket shapes and aspecific loop size to accommodate standard necessities like diapers, awipe's box, tubes of diaper rash cream, etc. . . . The Baby Pockets wasalso created to save space, travel with the baby, and hung with adhesivehooks and button holes, make changing a diaper easy and portable. TheBaby Pockets was used in bathrooms next to bathroom countertops were achanging pad was used and next to standard commercial changing tables.The Baby Pockets was hung at eye level to engage baby and to makeeverything easily accessible to the caregiver.

[0004] The inventor created several iterations for herself, family &friends as baby gifts. Through daily use the inventor created elasticloops the exact right size to hold tubes of diaper rash cream and/orpetroleum jelly. The inventor also, through daily use, changed thedesign over time to insure the pockets were the right size for a box ofcommercial wipes, baby powder, lotion, cotton swabs, etc. . . . based onall of the items the inventor used to change the diapers of herchildren. In addition, the inventor uses the loops to hang toys andrattles and music boxes to further stimulate the baby when diaperchanging occurs. Lastly, the inventor modified the design to place theloops strategically to insure the fastest and easiest diaper change andto insure toys could be hung strategically to insure maximum visualstimulation for baby and out of reach of child.

[0005] The inventor's constant retooling and modifying of this inventionhas resulted in a finished product with no anticipated manufacturingproblems. The inventor anticipates one use problem. There are concernsthat this product will be used as a babysitting tool. However, thisproblem is easily cured with a waiver and warning advising users of BabyPockets that the product must only be used with supervision. Inaddition, the warning will advise users that as with all products ofthis ilk, no child should be unsupervised during use.

[0006] To the inventor's knowledge, no other product of this natureexists or is undergoing the patent process. This product is acombination of several other ideas, quilting, organizing, travel easeand child entertainment. This invention idea is unique in that itcombines all of these uses for the ultimate goal of convenientchildcare. Quilts are used primarily for either decor or bedding. To theinventor's knowledge no other quilt product is anorganizational/entertainment/travel tool for childcare. Productsintended for childcare product organization usually come in the form offurniture or handbags. To the inventor's knowledge no childcareorganizational product comes in a quilt like form with the multiplepurpose of organizing, traveling and entertaining children. Furthermore,the inventor believes that her invention's goal, to make diapering andgrooming of a child easy through organization, easy travel possibilitiesand entertainment, are one of a kind. To her knowledge no product hasthis potential.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0007] Baby Pockets is the original hanging diaper-changing organizer,baby care product storage area and travel system which can be hung inalmost any location. The idea behind Baby Pockets is to make changingdiapers, and child grooming fast and fun for caregivers and infantsand/or children alike.

[0008] Baby Pockets is unique because it simultaneously serves thefunctions of baby care product organization, travel system and childstimulation, thus simplifying the diaper changing or child groomingexperience for the caregiver and making this experience pleasurable forall concerned. It is rectangular in shape and is quilted and/or materialbacked. There are pockets and loops of varying sizes on the front. Ithas two buttonholes at the top to allow for easy wall hanging. Itspockets are specifically designed to accommodate diaper changingproducts such as ointments, wipes and more, child-grooming essentialssuch as liquid soap, combs, tissues, and more and also baby toys. As ababy grows, the caregiver can use the pockets intended for diapers asunderwear storage areas.

[0009] In addition to the pockets, this invention has elastic loopsapproximately 3″ circumference specifically sized to accommodatecommercial diaper changing ointments stored in tubes, toys or otherneeds. The loops are strategically placed for two reasons. First, theloops allow the caregiver to hold the diaper rash cream (or otherproduct) and utilize it while still leaving the caregiver a free hand tohold the baby/child during changes or grooming. Second, the loops allowthe caregiver to hang toys safe from a baby's reach but still at eyelevel for a baby's enjoyment. In sum, this invention organizes, andtravels well while saving a caregiver time and effort. It has a pleasingaesthetic for both the caregiver and baby/child. It entertains andsoothes baby and child as well as keeps them from unnecessary discomfortcaused by disorganization and inaccessibility.

[0010] The inventor created four different sized Baby Pockets. A smallvertical, approximately 17×27″ with only 6 pockets and 3 loops. Avertical, 18×30″ for hanging in a bathroom to accommodate changing in asmall space. A horizontal version 30×18″ to give the infant maximumvisual stimulation while on a changing table. And a large, wall hangingversion for her toddler son—approximately 38″×38″—with large pockets forhim to grab out his own diapers and toys, etc. . . .

[0011] Lastly, the inventor used adhesive hooks to hang the Baby Pocketsto a variety of different surfaces i.e.: glass, wood and dry wall. TheBaby Pockets are hung either using buttonholes or loops at the top andallow for a decorative quilting rod to be used. The portability of BabyPockets mean that a mother can stock it, take it off the hooks, andtransport anywhere with all changing necessities in tact.

[0012] Baby Pockets is unique in that it is multi-functional. It isorganizational, educational/stimulating, portable, washable and able tobe hung anywhere using standard hooks or nails can be used with aquilting pole. Adhesive or standard hooks can be used alone. Thanks tothis invention, there will be no more rifling through draws oroverstuffed diaper bags in search for necessary baby care items. Allnecessary diaper changing and grooming items are visible and easilyaccessible. Less searching means that the baby or child will be lesslikely to loose patience or spend needless moments in discomfort.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] The Baby Pockets Vertical has a material (often quilted) backingwith colorful satin bindings on the sides and bottom and measuresapproximately 18″ across and 30″ in height. Its bold colors andcontrasting patterns and solids are meant to catch baby's eye and keepbaby interested while diaper changing. There are two extra large pocketsfor storing diapers and wipes or other needs. A large pocket for storingpowder, creams, toys, etc. Three tall pockets for diaper rash cream, apocket for cotton swabs and cotton balls, an additional small pocket andfive elastic loops. There are eight pockets total.

[0014] The Baby Pockets Horizontal has a material (often quilted)backing with colorful satin bindings on the sides and measuresapproximately 30″ across and 18″ in height. Its bold colors andcontrasting patterns and solids are meant to catch baby's eye and keepbaby interested while diaper changing. There are two extra large pocketsfor storing diapers and wipes, and two large pockets for storing powder,creams, toys, etc. There are also two tall pockets and two small pocketsand five elastic loops. There are eight pockets total.

INVENTOR BIOGRAPHY

[0015] E. Hillary Long inventor and President of Portfolio's Direct, isa working mother of two children. She received an MS in MIS and an MBAfrom Boston University's graduate school of management.

[0016] For the past three plus year Ms. Long has been the VP Practices,for InfoQuest Consulting Group, Inc. in Edison, N.J. As such she managedlarge international technology deployment projects for the company'scustomers including Lucent Technologies and Avaya Corporation.

[0017] Prior to joining InfoQuest, Ms. Long was a Director ofInformation Technology for The Equitable in NYC., N.Y. where she manageda large national deployment of new technology to the firm.

[0018] Before moving to NYC, and after completing her Master's degrees,Ms. Long resided in Massachusetts and managed technology departments forPolaris Service, Inc. and for Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare.

[0019] In 1996 Ms. Long was recognized for her work in the IT field andwas voted into the top 100 women in technology in the U.S.

[0020] Ms. Long is considered an industry expert in the field of ProjectManagement. She has conducted corporate training in IT ProjectManagement and has also taught Project Management for the University ofPhoenix Online.

TITLE PAGE

[0021] This application concerns the invention entitled Baby Pockets.Baby Pockets is the original hanging diaper-changing organizer. It is ahome organizer and a travel system that can be hung in nearly anylocation. This invention not only provides organization and convenientrelocation of diapers, baby care product accessories and toys but alsoprovides stimulation and play activities for children.

[0022] Baby Pockets was invented by E. Hillary Long, president ofPotfolio's Direct. E. Hillary Long is a citizen and resident of theUnited States. She can be located at Princeton, N.J. (609) 919-1881.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0023] Although there are no related patent applications, E. HillaryLong filed a trademark application to preserve her rights to the nameBaby Pockets in November 2002. Her customer number is 35097.

[0024] Since this invention is made of fabric, unlike other storagesystems and organizers, it is portable and easily cleaned. It can berolled up or folded and taken on trips. It can be moved from one placeto another within an abode. Plus, it can be machine-washed.

[0025] Its fabric construction gives it another valuable property, itentertains babies and children. Baby Pockets is made up of colors anddesigns which stimulate growing minds and occupy restless littleindividuals. Its calming quality allow for easy diapering and grooming.In addition, Baby Pockets has elastic loops for toys. Caregivers caneasily entertain and diaper or groom babies and children by using thissystem. No other organizer and storage product performs this function.

[0026] In addition to its storage, organizational, portable, washable,and stimulation potential, Baby Pockets' pleasing aesthetic anduniversal hanging system (buttonholes) allows caregivers to hang almostanywhere without regret or fuss. With the proper hardware, which is notincluded in this product's packaging, it can be placed on wood, glass ordry wall.

[0027] In conclusion, it is my position that Baby Pockets is unique inits look, feel and functionality. It simplifies and expedites the diaperchanging and grooming process like no other product. Therefore a patentwould properly be granted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Vertical Baby Pocket—Detail Description

[0028] Backing: Material, often quilted for weight

[0029] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 18″ across'32″ height

[0030] Approximately 18″ across by 30″ in height (rectangular shape)

[0031] Binding: Satin, shiny decorative binding made of polyester

[0032] Approximately 2″ down each side and across the bottom

[0033] Each strip is used as binding, standard 2″ width binding, meaning4″ width folded to be 2″ should be used

[0034] Two X-Large Pockets Pockets “A” in Drawings

[0035] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 12″ across×10″ height

[0036] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 10″ across×9″ height

[0037] One Large Pocket, Pocket “B” in Drawings

[0038] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 10″ across×8″ height

[0039] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 9″ across×9″ height

[0040] Three Tall Pockets, Pocket “C” in Drawings

[0041] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 6½″ across by 7″ height

[0042] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 4″ across by 6″ height

[0043] One Long Pocket, Pocket “D” in Drawings

[0044] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 8″ across by 3″ height

[0045] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 7″ across by 2″ height

[0046] One Small Pocket, Pocket “E” in Drawings

[0047] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 5″ across by 4″ height

[0048] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 4″ across by 3½ height

[0049] Three Caps

[0050] Elastic not covered by bottom of pocket is covered by a “Cap”

[0051] Caps are made of the same material used for pocket “B”

[0052] Caps are approximately 1″ across by 1″ height cut and sewn

[0053] Elastic

[0054] Each elastic should be cut to approximately 3″ and should beapproximately ½″ in width

Horizontal Baby Pocket—Detail Description

[0055] Backing: Material, often quilted for weight

[0056] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 30″ across by 20″ height

[0057] Approximately 30″ across by 18″ in height

[0058] Binding: Satin, shiny decorative binding made of polyester

[0059] Approximately 2″ down each side

[0060] Each strip is used as binding, standard 2″ width binding, meaning4″ width folded to be 2″ should be used

[0061] Two X-Large Pockets, Pockets “A” in Drawings

[0062] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 12″ across×10″ height

[0063] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 10″ across×9″ height

[0064] Two Large Pocket, Pocket “B” in Drawings

[0065] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 10″ across×8″ height

[0066] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 9″ across×9″ height

[0067] Two Tall Pockets, Pocket “C” in Drawings

[0068] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 6½″ across by 7″ height

[0069] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 4″ across by 6″ height

[0070] Two Small Pockets, Pocket “E” in Drawings

[0071] Actual Size pre-sewn approximately 5″ across by 4″ height

[0072] Actual Size on Baby Pockets approximately 4″ across by 3½″ height

[0073] Two Caps

[0074] Elastic not covered by bottom of pocket is covered by a “Cap”

[0075] Caps are made of the same material used for pocket “B”

[0076] Caps are approximately 1″ across by 1″ height cut and sewn

[0077] Elastic

[0078] Each elastic should be cut to approximately 3″ and should beapproximately ½″ in width

[0079] The sides of all Baby Pockets are as thick as the fabric materialused.

INSTRUCTION TO PRODUCE

[0080] Baby Pockets either Vertical or Horizontal

[0081] The following are step-by-step instructions for creating babypockets:

[0082] 1. Select fabric to be used.

[0083] a. Four different fabrics are required, quilted backing, 3different pocket fabrics

[0084] b. Insure fabrics are patterned but also coordinated in color andstyling

[0085] c. The backing should be quilted for added weight so that theBaby Pockets hangs correctly against the wall. However, any materialwith batting will suffice. A double-sided material should be used.

[0086] 2. Cut fabrics, elastic and binding to the sizes indicated in“Detail Description”

[0087] 3. For backing cut an additional 2″ height for either theHorizontal or Vertical

[0088] 4. With sewing machine, Sew Backing First

[0089] a. Finish top by turning in unfinished sides and sewing astraight stitch across

[0090] b. Finish sides by sewing sating strips as indicated on diagram,turning under ends and using a straight stitch

[0091] c. Two button holes, approximately 1″ in length should be sewnapproximately ½ down from top and just to the inside edge of each sidesatin binding

[0092] d. Cut out the inside of the button hole to allow for a hook tobe inserted

[0093] 4. Sew Pockets

[0094] a. Finish each pocket by turning each side approximately ½″under, can iron before sewing if so desired

[0095] b. For pocket's A, B and C, a fold, between 1-2″ much be made tothe bottom of the pocket to when sewing to achieve a “pocket” able tohold items

[0096] c. Each pocket's top seam must be sewn prior to attaching tobacking, fold down the top of each pocket and use straight stitch to sewand finish

[0097] d. Each pocket should be sewn to backing using a straight stitchas per the drawing, sewing from the bottom row up is preferable. Eachpocket is sewn with the right side, bottom, and left—leaving the topunsown to allow for use. For extra strength a zigzag stitch can be sewnover the straight stitch

[0098] 5. Sew Elastic & Caps

[0099] a. Where elastic tops to a pocket, sew under pocket hem to hideunfinished top

[0100] b. Where elastic tops are caped, sew elastic, then sew cap overtop of elastic to hide unfinished top. A stitch which is a finishedstitch is easiest to use with caps, even a zigzag stitch can be used, toallow a finished look without having to turn in and finish each cap witha ½″ seam.

[0101] Introduction: Baby Pockets is a product designed to make diaperchanging and grooming easy, convenient and pleasurable for bothcaregiver baby and/or child. It serves multiple functions as anorganizer, storage, entertainment, travel system, and decorative wallhanging

1. What I claim as my invention is an infant and/or child diaperchanging and grooming tool which organizes and stores baby care productsand toys for accessibility, time saving and ease of use. It isrectangular in shape, made of fabric (often quilted), thread, elasticand hanging hardware. It organizes and stores baby care products andtoys with the help of pockets and elastic loops which are sewn onto itsfabric base. These pockets and loops are specially designed and sized tofit most baby care products and some toys. It is called Baby Pockets andis available in 3 sizes: 1) small, 17″×27″; 2) standard, 18″×30″; 3)large 38″×38″. The small size has 6 pockets and 3 loops. The standardBaby Pockets contains 8 pockets and 5 elastic loops. The large size has10 pockets and a minimum of 7 loops. The pockets vary in sizes and arespecially designed to fit diapering and grooming products such asdiapers, ointments, creams, wipes, cotton balls, cotton swabs, powders,safety pins, wash clothes and more. The loops are designed for toys,tubes, brushes and more.
 2. What I claim as my invention is an infantand/or child diaper changing and grooming storage and organizationaltool which is quilt like in nature in that it is made of fabric, makingthis invention both flexible and therefore portable as well as machinewashable. One needs only to roll or fold this product along up andtravel either inside or outside of the home, daycare, etc. It can easilybe moved from one location within a home, daycare, etc. to another. Forexample, if the proper hardware is in place, Baby Pockets can be movedfrom a changing area in an upstairs bedroom or bathroom to another roomdownstairs or elsewhere in the home, daycare, etc.
 3. What I claim as myinvention is an infant and/or child diaper changing and groomingstorage, organizational, travel tool which stimulates and educatesbabies and children through its fabric colors, stitching and design, andalso toy storage areas, thus providing comfort for babies and children.Babies and children like to watch it and watch you using it.
 4. What Iclaim as my invention is an infant and child diaper changing andgrooming storage, organizational, travel and entertainment tool whichcan be used as a decorative wall hanging piece because its quilt likecharm is aesthetically pleasing. It has button holes at the top whichallow for easy hanging with the proper hardware such as standard hooks,adhesive hooks or quilting rods and hardware. The buttonholes andelastic loops create a universal hanging system.
 5. What I claim as myinvention is an infant and child diaper changing and grooming tool whichprovides storage areas for baby care products and toys, organizes theseproducts, serves as a travel system, entertains infants and childrenduring use and can be used a decorative wall hanger.